John 3

In this chapter we read of two men of faith Nicodemus and John the Baptist. In the story of Nicodemus he comes to see Jesus at night under the cover of darkness to get some one on one instruction. Please be aware that this is not the whole conversation it is like the "minutes" taken at a meeting not the "hours." The discussion helps us all understand about how new life begins for those who change their old ways and begin to follow Jesus. We are new if we die to self and selfishness and begin to live for God and God's graciousness. In what ways have you been born anew?

John 3.16 is a favorite passage to many. It affirms God's great love for the world, for you and me and everyone. God sends Jesus to teach us that love and model that love that we not just wither up and die from fear and greed and hate, but have eternal life and eternal love. I would encourage you to memorize this verse and also the next one John 3.17 to remember that as followers of Jesus we are not in the judging business but in the saving business. Jesus did not come to judge but to save. Do you know that saving love of Jesus?

In the story of John the Baptist and his dialogue with his followers we see his understanding of his role as the one to assist Jesus like the best man supporting the groom. Though John has had a good run and a good following now that Jesus has come into his public ministry, John affirms he has done his job and in doing so his "joy is complete." Have you had the joy of a job well done?  Well done!